大般涅槃經集解 23.12

23.12

Sengliang comments: Hell is their destination, which is likened to the house. Generating the aspiration [for awakening] out of fear of suffering is likened to being forced to take [the medicine]. Being obstructed when one ought to be obstructed is likened to the ailment being cured. Now, those who do not believe do so because they do not reflect on impermanence and do not fear retribution for sins; slander arises from this. At the time of approaching death, retribution for the sin of slander appears before them, and in terror they repent; thereupon slander ceases and faith arises. Impermanence and retribution for sin are the hall where goodness is contemplated, serving as the house. That what is born must return to death is the 'returning'. Suffering pressing close, after which one only then comes to believe, is being forced to take the medicine.